Vacuum pressure breaker and freeze protection for a water flushing system

ABSTRACT

A water flushing system for a pressurized subterranean water distribution system includes an inlet conduit for receiving pressurized water from the subterranean water distribution system; an outlet fluidly connected to the inlet conduit for discharging pressurized water in the inlet conduit downwardly towards a drain; and a control valve for controlling the flow of pressurized water in the inlet conduit. The water flushing system further includes one or more of the following features: a freeze protection assembly, a detachable coupling system, a dechlorination system, and a backflow prevention system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/474,467, filed on May 31, 2003.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in general to water quality maintenance devicesand systems and, more particularly, to a water flushing apparatus forautomatically maintaining water quality in a water distribution system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Water flushing systems are known in the art such as those disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 6,358,408 and 6,035,704. While the main purpose of thesesystems is to improve water quality in a water distribution system, suchsystems can include a number of auxiliary features that address specificissues relating to water flushing systems.

For instance, some water flushing systems are used in locations that mayexpose the system to subfreezing temperatures. Such environments can bedamaging to various components of the system. For example, when thewater contained in a pipe freezes, it expands and may ultimately breakthe surrounding pipe. Moreover, frigid conditions can interfere with theproper functioning of a water flushing system. Some flushing systems useelectronic controls to automatically open and close various valves.However, many of these electronic devices are sensitive to temperatureextremes and, in subfreezing climates, the electronic unit may becomeinoperative. Accordingly, there is a need for a water quality apparatusthat can protect various components against the potential dangers causedby freezing temperatures.

Another problem associated with water flushing systems is the backwardflow of contaminated or otherwise unclean water into the waterdistribution system. Thus, it is desirable to provide a water flushingsystem that prevents backflow of contaminated water into the waterdistribution system.

Further, some jurisdictions may impose environmental or otherrequirements on water discharged from the flushing system. For example,a municipality may prohibit the discharge of chlorinated water into theground or into a storm drain. Therefore, it is desirable for a waterflushing apparatus to provide a system or device for appropriatelytreating at least a portion of the water discharged from the system suchas by providing a dechlorination system.

Still another issue concerns the accessibility of water flushing systemsin which most of the operating components are disposed below grade leveland/or water flushing systems that are enclosed within any confinedspace. Because such systems may require regular inspection andmaintenance, not to mention occasional repairs, there is a need toprovide a system that permits retrieval and/or access to a substantialportion of the water flushing apparatus in a relatively expeditiousmanner.

Thus, one object according to aspects of the present invention is toprovide a water flushing system that includes freeze protectionfeatures. Another object according to aspects of the invention is toprovide a water flushing apparatus having backflow preventionattributes. Still another object according to aspects of the inventionis to provide a device or system for dechlorination or other treatmentof water exiting the system. Yet another object according to aspects ofthe invention is to provide an apparatus and method for retrieving awater flushing system disposed in a confined space. These and otherobjects according to aspects of the present invention are addressedbelow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A water flushing system for a pressurized subterranean waterdistribution system includes an inlet conduit for receiving pressurizedwater from the subterranean water distribution system; an outlet fluidlyconnected to the inlet conduit for discharging pressurized water in theinlet conduit; and a control valve for controlling the flow ofpressurized water in the inlet conduit. The flushing system can furtherinclude one or more of the following: a freeze protection assembly, adetachable coupling system and method, a water treatment system such asa dechlorination system, and a backflow prevention system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a water flushing apparatus according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of a programmable controller forcontrolling a flow control valve according to aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a controller disposed within a housingaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a t-fitting according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of a t-fitting according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a t-fitting according to aspects ofthe present invention.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a reducer according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is an exploded isometric view of a water treatment toweraccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of a water flushing system accordingto aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of a water flushing system accordingto aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a water flushing system according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a water flushing system according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a water flushing system according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a water flushing system according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a water flushing system according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a valve according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 17 is an exploded isometric view of a valve according to aspects ofthe present invention.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a valve according to aspects of thepresent invention, taken along line 18—18 of FIG. 16.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a valve according to aspects of thepresent invention while under pressure.

FIG. 20 is a side view of a first shell member of the valve according toaspects of the present invention, viewed along line 20—20 of FIG. 17.

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a fitting according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 22 is an isometric view of a fitting according to aspects of thepresent invention.

FIG. 23 is a side elevational view of a fitting according to aspects ofthe present invention.

FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of a fitting according to aspects ofthe present invention.

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of a handle and a handle mount according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a top plan view of a handle and handle mount assemblyaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a female cam portion of a cam lockdevice according to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of a male connector portion of a camlock device according to aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a cam lock device in a locked modeaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a cam lock device in an unlockedmode according to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a exploded isometric view of a modified cam lock handleaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is an isometric view of a modified cam lock handle according toaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a cam lock device with modifiedhandles according to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is an elevational view of a connecting rod according to aspectsof the present invention.

FIG. 35 is an elevational view of a latching system in a locked modeaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is an elevational view of a latching system in an unlocked modeaccording to aspects of the present invention.

FIG. 37 is an isometric view of a water flushing system with watertreatment/dechlorination devices according to aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 38 is an exploded isometric view of a watertreatment/dechlorination device according to aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of a water flushing system with watertreatment/dechlorination devices according to aspects of the presentinvention, taken along line 39—39 of FIG. 37.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention address many of the problems relatingto water flushing systems. More particularly, aspects according to thepresent invention relate to freeze protection, backflow prevention, anddechlorination or other water treatment in connection with waterflushing systems. Other aspects of the present invention are directed toan apparatus and methods for allowing a user to remotely retrieve anapparatus or system including a water flushing system. These aspects andother aspects will be discussed in connection with various waterflushing systems.

Embodiments of the invention will be explained in the context of variouswater flushing systems, but the detailed description is intended only asexemplary. Embodiments according to aspects of the invention are shownin FIGS. 1–39, but the present invention is not limited to theillustrated structure or application.

Water flushing systems can have a variety of configurations andarrangements. Examples of such systems are shown in FIGS. 1, and 9–15.The system shown in FIGS. 9–15 will generally and/or collectively bereferred to as column-type systems; the system shown in FIG. 1 willgenerally be referred to as a box-type system. The terms “column” and“box” are given only to facilitate discussion and are not intended tolimit the scope of the invention to any particular layout. While each ofthese systems can be arranged in different manners, many of theindividual components are common between the various systems. Both thebox-type system and the column-type system will be discussed in turnaccording to aspects of the present invention.

An example of a box-type water flushing system 10 is shown in FIG. 1.The system includes water carrier piping 12 that connects to apressurized subterranean water distribution system (not shown), whichcan be located below the ground level 13, preferably below the freeze orfrost line 14 of the ground. The dimensions and configuration of thewater carrier piping 12 are adapted for connection to the particularpiping or provisions of the water distribution system. For example, theinlet end 12 a of the water carrier piping can provide a male or afemale connector that can be threaded for threaded engagement with thewater distribution system. The water carrier piping 12 can comprise asingle pipe, which can be straight or include one or more bends, or itcan comprise a plurality of pipes and/or fittings.

Regardless of the exact configuration, the water carrier piping 12 isgenerally connected at its inlet end 12 a to the water distributionsystem and at its outlet end 12 b to other components of the waterflushing system 10. The outlet end 12 b of the water carrier piping 12can be connected to the other components of the water flushing system 10in various manners such as by threaded engagement, adhesives, fastenersor welding. Preferably, the water flushing system 10 and the watercarrier piping 12 are detachably coupled together by a quickconnect/disconnect device 18 such as a cam lock. An example of a camlock device is illustrated in FIGS. 27–30 and is discussed later.

In one embodiment, the water carrier piping 12 can be detachably coupledto a flow controlled passage 16 of the water flushing system 10. Theflow controlled passage 16 can comprise a single pipe or a plurality ofpipe segments and/or fittings. Under certain circumstances, it may bedesirable to completely cut off water flow to the apparatus. Forinstance, isolation may be desirable when the apparatus is undergoingrepair. Thus, an isolation or shut-off valve 20 for controlling theintroduction of water into the apparatus can be disposed along the flowcontrolled passage.

Water entering the flow controlled passage 16 can encounter a flowcontrol valve 22. The flow control valve 22 can control the rate atwhich water is purged from the system. When not in a flushing mode, theflow control valve 22 can completely restrict the flow of the incomingwater from the main line. The flow control valve 22 can be any type ofvalve such as a ball valve. Preferably, the flow control valve 22 iscapable of passing sand and other debris without obstructing the valve22. The flow control valve 22 can be constructed of various materialsincluding metals and plastics such as non-corrosive glass reinforcednylon.

A programmable controller 24 can be provided for activating anddeactivating the flow control valve 22. Thus, the controller 24 can beprogrammed to activate the flow control valve 22 in various settings orcycles. For example, the controller 24 can be set for a specific day, ata desired time of day and/or for a specified duration of time. In oneembodiment, the controller 24 can be integrated with the flow controlvalve 22. The programmable controller 24 can be a solenoid controller.Preferably, the controller 24 can be powered by a power supply such as areplaceable self-contained power source like a 9-volt battery. Ideally,the power source can have an operating life of about 8 months to 12months under normal operating conditions.

The controller 24 can store instructions from a hand-held detachableprogrammer (not shown). Alternatively, the controller 24 can include aintegral keypad or other user interface. The programmer can transmitinstructions to the controller in numerous ways. In one embodiment, aprogramming/data retrieval port (not shown), such as a standardtelephone handset jack, can be integral with the controller 24 or it canbe integrated into a portion of the apparatus housing (not shown). Theport and the controller can be separate pieces and, when they are, acord can be provided to connect them together.

The port can be adapted for receiving instructions from a remotehand-held programming device (not shown). For instance, the hand-heldprogramming device can comprise a lap-top computer. The hand-heldelectronic device can communicate programming instructions to theprogrammable controller 24 in various manners. The port can provide foreither uni-directional or bi-directional communication between theprogramming device and the controller 24.

In basic operation, when the flow control valve 22 is opened, water inthe flow controlled passage 16 can pass through the flow control valve22 and into discharge piping 26. Discharge piping 26 preferably routsthe water downward, such as into a receiving drain 29, so as to avoidthe dangers associated with upward or lateral discharge.

The discharge piping 26 can be configured in several ways. It can be asingle pipe or a plurality of pipes and/or fittings. The dischargepiping 26 can comprise rigid pipes and/or flexible pipes overall or incertain portions. The discharge piping 26 can be in fluid communicationwith a receiving drain 29. In one embodiment, the discharge piping 26can connect directly to a receiving drain 29. Such a connection can bemade in various ways such as by any of a number of pipe fittings, hoseclamps or a quick connect/disconnect device. Alternatively, thedischarge piping 26 and the receiving drain 29 may not be directlyconnected. In one embodiment, an air gap can separate the dischargepiping 26 and the receiving drain 29. Though the discharge piping 26 andthe receiving drain 29 are no longer directly connected, they are insubstantial fluid communication so that water exiting the dischargepiping 26 can be substantially received in the receiving drain 29. Theair gap configuration offers protection against backflow of contaminatedor unclean water. With such a configuration, the box-type water flushingsystem 10 may not need any other backflow prevention devices as part ofthe system.

However, when no air gap is provided between the discharge piping 26 andthe receiving drain 29, backflow can still be an issue. Thus, aspectsaccording to the invention relate to preventing the backflow of water inthe water flushing system 10. In one aspect, the box-type water flushingsystem can include a backflow prevention device. The backflow preventiondevice can be any of a number of devices including an RPZ, whichoperates on a reduced pressure zone theory. Preferably, the backflowprevention device is a vacuum pressure breaker 30. Vacuum pressurebreakers and RPZs are known in the art, so the details of theiroperation will not be explained as they are generally understood by oneskilled in the art.

It has been observed that, during operation, the vacuum pressure breaker30 may sometimes fail to close properly. Such a problem can bealleviated by applying a back pressure on the vacuum pressure breaker30. To create the needed back pressure, the discharge piping 26downstream of the vacuum pressure breaker 30 can be reduced to create achoked flow condition. For example, in one embodiment, the dischargepiping 26 can be reduced from an inner diameter of about 2 inches to aninner diameter of about 1 inch.

The reduction can be accomplished in a variety of ways. For example, thedischarge pipe 26 can have a specially contoured inner passage that can,for example, include a sharp reduction in inner diameter. Alternatively,the choked flow condition can be created by connecting pipe segmentshaving unequal inner diameters. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, a separatepiece such as a reducer 32 can be inserted into the discharge piping 26downstream from the vacuum pressure breaker 30 to create the needed backpressure.

One possible configuration for a reducer appears in FIG. 7. As shown,the reducer 32 can be a generally cylindrical part having an outerdiameter sized for receipt inside of the discharge piping 26. Forexample, if the discharge piping 26 has an inner diameter ofapproximately 2 inches, the reducer 32 can have an outer diameter ofabout 1 ⅞ inches. The inner diameter of the reducer 32 can be sized tocreate the desired choke flow condition. In one embodiment, the innerdiameter of the reducer 32 can be about 1 inch. The reducer 32 can beplaced inside of the discharge piping 26 either with or without thebenefit of additional securement devices such as glue. The reducer 32can be made of any material such as metals including brass, but plasticsincluding PVC are preferred. When employed, the reducer 32 can increasethe pressure in the portion of the discharge piping 26 prior to thereducer 32. Experience has demonstrated that this extra back pressurecan facilitate closure of the vacuum pressure breaker.

Aspects of the present invention can further relate to a freezeprotection system for the box systems to address thepreviously-described dangers of subfreezing temperatures. Before turningto the details of the present invention, the Applicants wish to describea prior art freeze protection system that has been applied to box-typewater flushing devices. In the prior art, a t-fitting was interposedbetween the controller and the flow control valve. Branching off fromthe t-fitting was a plastic tube that entered into the housing for thecontroller. Inside the housing, the plastic tube wrapped in coil-likefashion, extending downwardly about the inner periphery of the housing.The plastic tube exited near the bottom of the housing and thenconnected into a first end of a temperature control valve.

The second end of the temperature control valve was connected to outletplastic tubing. This tubing ultimately tied into the discharge flow pathof the system so as to be purged from the system. The temperaturecontrol valve measured the water temperature in the tubing connectinginto the temperature control valve. The temperature control valve couldfurther be set to fully or partly open at certain predeterminedtemperature levels. When the temperature control valve opened, therewould be a decrease in the pressure in the tubing extending between thet-fitting and the temperature control valve. The decrease in pressurewould cause the control valve to open a generally commensurate amount toallow water to flush through the apparatus.

This arrangement was designed to provide freeze protection by exchangingthe near freezing water in the lines with warmer water from asubterranean water distribution system located below the frost line.Such replacement water would naturally be above the ambient freezingtemperatures. The passage of the warmer water through the system wouldprevent the lines from freezing and, in addition, would circulatethrough the coiled line surrounding the controller so as to prevent thecontroller and associated electronics from freezing.

However, further study and field experience has revealed imperfectionsin the above-described arrangement. For example, the above-describedarrangement can result in the thermal control valve measuringartificially warmer water temperatures in the incoming supply line. Thiswater was indeed warmer because it had initially passed through thecoiled tubing surrounding the controller. As noted earlier, the coiledtubing is contained within a housing, which acted as somewhat of abarrier from the external environment. Thus, the water leaving the coiland flowing up to the temperature control valve was warmer than, forexample, water in other tubing in the system. But, since the temperaturecontrol valve only took readings from water in its incoming line, thetemperature reading were not representative of the water temperature inother parts of the system.

Because the temperature control valve measured a higher temperature, itwould remain closed and not allow warmer water from below ground toreplace the freezing water. Consequently, the water would freeze beforethe temperature control valve opened. This problem may have beenexacerbated by the size of plastic tubing used in the system. In thisprior system, the tubing was ¼ inch in diameter. However, experience hasdemonstrated that water in tubing of that size is more likely to freezecompared to water in tubing of a somewhat larger diameter, such as ⅜ or½ inches.

The problems associated with at least the above-described prior systemare addressed according to aspects of the present invention. In onerespect, the system components can be rearranged so as to avoid theartificially high temperature readings taken by the temperature controlvalve. In another respect, the system tubing can be replaced with largerdiameter tubing to further impede the onset of freezing.

FIGS. 1–6 shows an example of a system and various individual componentsthat can be arranged to provide an improved freeze protection systemaccording to aspects of the present invention. The general arrangementwill now be described. A t-fitting 34 can be inserted between thecontroller and the flow control valve. A first tube 36 can branch offfrom the t-fitting and can be routed directly to the inlet of thetemperature control valve 38. At the outlet of the temperature controlvalve 38, a second tube 40 can be provided that to carry water into andout of a housing 23 for the controller 24. Specifically, as shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the second tube 40 can enter the housing and coil aroundthe inner periphery of the housing in a generally downward spiral path.The second tube 40 can be coiled in such a way so as to receive at leasta portion of the controller 24. When the controller 24 is inserted intohousing 23, at least a portion of the controller 24 can be substantiallysurrounded by the second tube 40.

After exiting the housing 23, the second tube 40 continues and connectsinto discharge piping 26. If a reducer 32 is used in the water flushingsystem 10, then it is preferred if the second tube 40 connects into thedischarge piping 26 at a point downstream from the reducer 32. While thepressure in the discharge pipe 26 can be relatively high upstream of thereducer, the pressure can conversely be relatively low downstream of thereducer 32. Thus, by connecting the second tube 40 into the dischargepiping 26 downstream of the reducer 32, the second tube can benefit fromthe low pressure, which may provide a suction effect to facilitate fluidflow through and out of second tube 40. Having described the basicarrangement of a freeze protection system according to aspects of theinvention, the individual components will be discussed in turn below.

The t-fitting 34, among other things, facilitates the opening of theflow control valve for normal flushing and freeze protection purposes.An example of a t-fitting 34 that can have certain features according toaspects of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 4–6. The t-fittinghas first 42, second 44 and third 46 ends. The first end 42 can beconnected directly to the controller 24 such as by threaded engagement.However, the connection may be indirect as well. For example, as shownin FIG. 2, an adapter 48 can be disposed between the controller 24 andthe t-fitting 34 for providing adaptability between the controller 24and other components, if needed. Similarly, the second end 44 canconnect, either directly or indirectly, into the flow control valve 22.The third end 46 can connect into the first tube 36 such as by hoseclamps, fitting or a swage-type connection. Each of these ends 42,44,46can have any of a number of configurations such as internal or externalthreads. Further, the configuration of the ends 42,44,46 can beidentical to or completely different from each other. The t-fitting 34can be made of any material such as metals or plastics.

The t-fitting 34 can have numerous internal features according toaspects of the present invention. For example, the t-fitting 34 caninclude three passages 50,51,52 that are generally defined by the innerdiameter of the t-fitting 34 and three dividing walls 53,54,55 extendingfrom a central hub 56. Extending through the central hub 56 is a passage57. At the second end 44 of the t-fitting 34, each of passages 50,51 caninclude an opening 58,59, respectively. The above described features cancooperate to open and close the flow control valve 22.

Openings 58,59 provide a path for water to initially enter the t-fitting34. However, any further flow is generally cut off by the flow controlvalve 22 and the temperature control valve 38. Further, in oneembodiment, the upper opening 57 a of the passage 57 can be sealingclosed by a nipple and/or plunger (not shown) associated with thecontroller 24. In short, the water in and around the t-fitting 34 isgenerally under pressure, and the arrangement of the internal featuresof the t-fitting assist in the opening and closing of the flow controlvalve 22.

For example, during a normal flushing operation, the controller 24 canactivate the flow control valve 22 by retracting the plunger/nipple sothat it lifts off of the upper opening 57 a. As a result, thepressurized water in the t-fitting 34 will flow into passage 57. Thiscreates a loss of pressure in that region. In one embodiment, the flowcontrol valve 22 can include diaphragm (not shown) that can be sensitiveto pressure shifts. Thus, the loss of pressure created when theplunger/nipple was lifted off of the upper opening 57 a causes the flowcontrol valve to open and water is flushed from the water distributionsystem. In addition, water that flows into the passage 57 can flow outinto the control valve on the other side of the diaphragm. To end theflushing cycle, the controller can push the plunger and/or nipple overthe upper opening 57 a of passage 57. Again, this is merely an exampleof one way in which the controller 24 can operate the flow control valve22.

Not only can the controller 22 operate the flow control valve 24, butthe temperature control valve 38 can operate the flow control valve aswell, separately and independently from the controller 22. As will bedescribed below, the temperature control valve 38 can create a pressurerelief when it opens so as to cause the flow control valve 22 to open.Starting in a non-flushing mode, the first tube 36 is filled with water.Water is allowed to enter the first tube 36 through passage 46 in thet-fitting 34. Thus, a portion of the water in the first tube 36 issubstantially proximate to the temperature control valve 38. When thewater in the first tube 36 reaches a certain temperature (as discussedbelow), the temperature control valve 38 opens, which relieves thepressure in the first tube 36 so as to allow water to flow through thetemperature control valve 38. The pressure loss causes more water to bedelivered to the first tube 36 through the t-fitting 34. As a result,the flow control valve will open 22 and the system will begin a flushcycle. The above is merely one example of t-fitting; there are a varietyof t- and other type fittings or other fitting within the scope of theinvention.

Aside from the t-fitting, there are several other components that can bea part of the freeze protection system according to aspects of theinvention such as the housing 23 for the controller 24. The housing 23can have a variety of configurations. For example, the housing 23 can begenerally cylindrical and at least one of its ends 23 a,23 b can beopen. The housing 23 can have any shape so long as it can accommodatethe controller 24 and the coiled second tube 40. In one embodiment, thehousing can include one or more openings for accommodating the secondtube as it enters and exits the housing.

The housing 23 can be made of a variety of materials and, in oneembodiment, the housing 23 is made from plastic. Moreover, the housing23 can include a cap 25 that can be removably attached to the top end 23a of the housing 23 such as by threaded engagement. Alternatively, thecap 25 may not even be associated with the housing 23. Rather, the cap25 can be generally associated with the controller 24. For example, thecap 25 can be a cover provided with the controller 24.

The temperature control valve 38 can be any device designed to open,fully or partially, at various temperature levels. In one embodiment,the temperature control valve 38 can simply open fully at a giventemperature. In another embodiment, the temperature control valve 38 canbegin to open at a first temperature, for example, 40 degreesFahrenheit. If the temperature continues to drop, the valve 38 cangradually and commensurately open until it fully opens at a secondtemperature such as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, thetemperature control valve 38 can start to open at 35 degrees Fahrenheitand become fully open at 30 degrees Fahrenheit. The settings of thetemperature control valve 38 may or may not be adjustable depending onthe particular temperature control valve 38.

Naturally, the temperature control valve 38 is configured to measure thewater temperature in the first tube 36. Accordingly, the temperaturecontrol valve 38 can include, for example, a thermometer or atemperature sensitive metal coil. In one embodiment, the temperaturecontrol valve 38 can be a purely mechanical device; in anotherembodiment, the temperature control valve 38 can have electronicattributes as well.

The first and second tubes 36,40 of the freeze protection system canhave various forms and be made of various materials. For example, thetubes 36,40 can have a variety of cross sections, but generally round ispreferred. The tubes 36,40 can be made of metals or plastic. Further, itis preferred if the tubes 36,40 are about ½ inch or, more preferably,about ⅜ inch in diameter. As noted earlier, field testing and operationhas demonstrated that tubing 36,40 of such size is less likely to freezecompared to ¼ inch tubing as used in the prior art. The first and secondtubes 36,40 can but need not be the same size. Moreover, it should benoted that both the first and second tubes 36,40 can be a singlecontinuous tube or they can comprise multiple tube segments and/orfittings.

With the general arrangement and individual components described indetail, an example of the operation of a freeze protection systemaccording to aspects of the invention will now be described. Initially,the temperature control valve 38 is closed and the first tube 36 isfilled with water. The temperature control valve 38 can measure thetemperature of the water in or from the first tube 36. The temperaturecontrol valve 38 can take measurements on a substantially continuousbasis or at any regular or irregular interval. When the watertemperature reaches a first temperature, the temperature control valve38 will begin to open. If the water temperature in the line furthercools to a second temperature, the temperature control valve 38 willfully open.

When the temperature control valve 38 opens, water in the first tube 36can pass through the valve 38. Because of the pressure relief in thefirst tube 36, the control valve 22 opens to allow water from the waterdistribution system to flush through the system. Thus, the cold waterthat was in the system is exchanged for warmer water from the waterdistribution system. Some of this water will pass through the controlvalve 22 and into discharge piping 26 as discussed previously. Inaddition, a portion of the warmer water passes through the t-fitting 34,into the first tube 36 and through the temperature control valve 38.

After passing through the valve 38, the water can flow into a secondtube 40. Water in the second tube can be routed to the controllerhousing 23. As shown in FIG. 3, the second tube 40 enters the housing 23and coil downwardly around the inner periphery of the housing 23 andultimately exits the housing 23. At least a portion of the controller 24is substantially surrounded by the coils of the second tube 40. Thus, aswarmer water passes through the coils, the electronic and othercomponents will be warmed. Water exiting the housing 23 will continue toflow through the second tube 40 until it flows into the discharge piping26 as discussed before. The above flushing operation will continue untilthe temperature control valve closes such as when it detects asufficiently elevated temperature. The above operation will repeatitself as necessary. Again, the first and second tubes 36,40 are ⅜ or ½inches in diameter, which offer protection from freezing betweenflushing cycles.

In addition to freeze protection, aspects according to the presentinvention can further relate to providing a device for treating waterbeing flushed from the system. In one aspect, the box-type system canprovide apparatus for dechlorinating the discharge water. Thedechlorination apparatus can comprise a plurality of componentsincluding, for example, a treatment container 80, a treatment substance,and inlet and outlet tubing 86,90. Each of these components will bediscussed in order below.

FIG. 8 generally shows an example of a water treatment container 80 forholding a substance for treating discharge water. In one embodiment, thecontainer 80 can generally comprise a generally cylindrical body 82 anda cap 84. The cap 84 and the body 82 can have any of a number of generalshapes. For example, instead of being generally cylindrical, thecontainer 80 can be generally triangular, rectangular, polygonal, etc.The cap 84 and the body 82 can be secured by threaded engagement,conforming fit, hinges, fasteners or any other manner such that the cap84 is removable from the body 82. Alternatively, the cap 84 and body 82can be secured by welding or adhesives such that the cap is no longerreadily removable. In this case, cap 84 can provide an opening or doorin which a user can deposit a substance into the interior of thecontainer 80. The housing 80 can be attached to the system using any ofa variety of restraints.

The container 80 can be made of any material such as metal or plasticlike PVC. Preferably, the container 80 is made from a material that iscompatible with the substance intended to be placed inside of thecontainer. In other words, the container 80 will not degrade orotherwise adversely affect the substance contained within and,conversely, the substance will not degrade or otherwise adversely affectthe container 80.

The substance to be placed within the container can be any of a numberof substances depending on the goal or governmental regulations atissue. For example if a municipality forbids discharging chlorinatedwater back into the ground, then the water treatment device can be adechlorination device and, accordingly, the container 80 can be filledwith sodium sulfite in tablet or other form. Alternatively, the housingmay contain other substances such as vitamins or minerals for not onlytreating the water but also the surrounding soil. Further, the container80 can include one or more different substances. Regardless of thecomposition of the substance, it is preferred if the substance isprovided in solid form such as tablets, granules, pellets or pills, forexample. The container 80 can be filled to any level with the substance,and, in one embodiment, the body 82 can include graduated level markingto indicate the level of substance contained inside.

The dechlorination container 80 can be provided with an opening 85 toreceive water from an inlet tube 86 (FIG. 1). The inlet tube 86 can bemade of various materials such as plastic or metal tubing. The inlettube 86 can extend from a portion of the discharge piping of thebox-system as shown in FIG. 1. The inlet tubing can tie anywhere intothe discharge piping. For example, the inlet tubing can tie into aregion of the discharge piping 26 where the discharge piping 26 isrouting the water downward or it can tie into a region of the dischargepiping 26 where the discharge water is flowing generally parallel to theground surface.

To aid in routing water to the dechlorination tower 80, the dischargepiping 26 of the box-system can make use of a reducer 32 for restrictingthe water flow inside the discharge piping 26. The earlier discussion ofthe reducer 32 in connection with the vacuum pressure breaker appliesequally here as the reducer 32.

When employed, the reducer 32 can increase the pressure in the portionof the discharge piping 26 prior to the reducer 32. The supply line 86of the dechlorination apparatus can take advantage of this elevatedpressure by being connected into the discharge piping 26 upstream of thelocation of the reducer 32 as shown in FIG. 1. Thus, the supply tubing86 will provide a path for reducing the pressure build-up. The supplyline 86 extends from the discharge piping 26 and into the treatmenttower 80. Further, prior to entering the treatment tower 80, the supplyline 86 can be fitted with a valve 88 for partially or completelyrestricting the flow into the tower 80.

The inlet piping 86 can enter the container 80 in a variety of placesalong the length or circumference of the cylindrical body 82 or throughthe cap 84. For example, the line 86 can enter at an upper portion ofcontainer as shown in FIG. 8. In such case, entering water can percolatedown through the dechlorination tablets within the container 80Alternatively, the line can enter the tower at a relatively low point sothat the incoming water washes against the generally lowermost tabletshoused within the container 80.

The container 80 can include an opening (not shown) in the bottom 83 ofthe container 80. In such case, the bottom surface of the container canbe inclined so as to facilitate draining of water Out of the containerthrough the opening and tubing 90 connected to the opening in the bottomof the container 80. The outlet tubing 90 can ultimately connect backinto the discharge piping 26,26 a of the box-system, preferably in aportion located downstream of the reducer 32. In such case, therelatively low pressure within the discharge piping 26,26 a in thatregion can create a suction effect to further facilitate flow of thetreated water out of the container 80. The outlet tube 90 can becomprised of various materials such as metals or plastics, and can haveany of a number of configurations.

The dechlorinized water exiting the discharge piping 90 can mix with theuntreated water being flushed so as to provide a desired average levelof dechlorination of the water flushed from the system. The amount ofdechlorinization can be controlled in any of a number of ways such as byincluding more tablets or by providing larger capacity inlet and outletlines 86,90 or a larger container 80. While the above discussion relatesto dechlorination, aspects of the invention are not so limited. Forexample, the container 80 can house any of a number of substances fortreating the water being discharged.

In summary, aspects of the invention relate to various improvements ofthe box-type water flushing system. Aspects include freeze protection,dechlorination and water treatment and certain backflow features aswell.

Like the box-type systems, the column-type systems can have a number ofarrangements and can be used in a variety of environments and manners.The column-type systems are especially suited for occasions in which auser wishes to place most, if not all, of the operating components ofthe system below grade level. Such an arrangement is desirable at leastfor the reason that it can deter tampering, theft or vandalism.

Examples of column-type systems are shown in FIGS. 9–10. A basiccolumn-type system 100 can comprise a plurality of components. Thecolumn system can be supplied by a water distribution system (not shown)such as a subterranean pressured water line. Water from the waterdistribution system can be received in water carrier piping 102 througha water inlet 104. The dimensions and configuration of the water inlet104 are adapted for connection to the particular piping of the waterdistribution system. For example, the water inlet 104 can provide a maleor a female connector that can include threads.

The water carrier piping 102 can be made up of one or more pipe segmentsand/or fittings. For example, after connecting to the water distributionsystem, the water carrier piping can include pipe fittings such as anelbow, tee or other fitting so as to change the direction of theincoming water. In one case, the water distribution system may beoriented generally horizontally. In such case, the water carrier pipingcan include a generally horizontal pipe segment 106 for connection tothe water distribution system. The other end of the water carrier pipingsegment 106 can connect to a 90 degree elbow 108. Another pipe segment110 can extend generally vertically upward from the other end of theelbow 108. Generally vertical means true vertical as well as deviationstherefrom. Thus, the incoming water enters the water carrier piping 102in a generally horizontal manner and is redirected through the watercarrier piping 102 to become generally vertical. Instead of havingmultiple pipe segments 106, 108, 110, the water carrier piping 102 canbe a single piece shaped so as to have the desired path.

Regardless of the exact configuration, the water carrier piping 102 cangenerally be connected at one of its ends to the water distributionsystem and at its other end to other components of the water flushingsystem 100. The water inlet piping 102 can be connected to the othercomponents of the water flushing system 100 in various manners such asby threaded engagement, adhesives, fasteners or welding. Preferably, thewater flushing system 100 and the water carrier piping 102 aredetachably connected together by a quick connect/disconnect device.

A quick connect/disconnect device can be a detachable coupling set suchas a cam lock, which is known in the art. A cam lock device isillustrated in FIGS. 27–30. In general, a cam lock can comprise a maleconnector portion and a female receptacle portion. The cam lock canprovide one or more rotatable cam members, which can be integral with auser handle for rotating the cam members. Additional aspects of the camlock system will be described in greater detail below.

Again, the water carrier piping and the water distribution system can bedetachably connected. Accordingly, one end of the water carrier pipingcan include a cam lock fitting such as a male connector portion.Naturally, the mating component of the column-type water distributionsystem can be provided with a corresponding cam lock fitting such as afemale receptacle portion.

In one water flushing system, water can flow from the water carrierpiping 102, through the cam lock and into a flow controlled passage 110of the column-type system. Water entering the flow controlled passage110 encounters a flow control valve 112. The valve 112 can control therate at which water is purged from the system. When not in a flushingmode, the valve 112 can completely restrict the flow of the incomingwater from the main line. The valve 112 can be any type of valve such asa ball valve. Preferably, the valve 112 is capable of passing sand andother debris without obstructing the valve 112. The control valve 112can be constructed of various materials including metals and plasticssuch as non-corrosive glass reinforced nylon.

A programmable controller 114 can be provided for activating anddeactivating the flow control valve 112. Thus, the controller 114 can beprogrammed to activate the flow control valve 112 in various settings orcycles. For example, the controller 114 can be set for a specific day,at a desired time of day and/or for a specified duration of time. In oneembodiment, the controller 114 can be integrated with the flow controlvalve 112. The programmable controller 114 can be a solenoid controller.Preferably, the controller 114 can be powered by a power supply such asa replaceable self-contained power sources like a 9-volt battery.Ideally, the power source can have an operating life of about 8 monthsto 12 months under normal operating conditions.

The controller 114 can store instructions from hand-held detachableprogrammer (not shown). The programmer can transmit instructions to thecontroller in numerous ways. In one embodiment, the column-type systemcan provide a programming/data retrieval port 116, such as a standardtelephone handset jack, which can be integrated into a portion of theapparatus housing 118. Preferably, the port 116 is waterproof. As shownin FIGS. 9 and 10, the port 116 can generally be located in severalplaces. When the port 116 and controller 114 are separated, a cord 120can be provided to connect between the port 116 and the controller 114.

The port 116 can be adapted for receiving instructions from a remotehand-held programming device (not shown). For instance, the hand-heldprogramming device can comprise a lap-top computer. The hand-heldelectronic device can communicate programming instructions to theprogrammable controller 114 in sundry manners. The port can provide foreither uni-directional or bi-directional communication between theprogramming device and the controller 114.

After the flow control valve 112, the system includes substantiallystraight and generally vertical piping 122, which may comprise a singlepipe or a plurality of pipes and/or fittings. The vertical piping 122can connect into the flow control valve 114 in sundry manners such as bythreaded engagement, adhesives, fasteners or any combination thereof.The vertical piping 122 can be made of any material but plastics such asPVC are preferred.

Once the water passes through the vertical piping 122, it can bedischarged from the water flushing system 100. Preferably, at least aportion of the vertical piping 122 and its discharge end 124 extendabove grade level. There are an assortment of ways to discharge thewater from the column-type system. In one system, shown in FIG. 9, thewater flows vertically upward until it impinges on a cap 126, whichredirects the water downward toward the ground. To aid in discussion,this configuration will be referred to as the “cap-redirect” system.

In the cap redirect system, the portion of the vertical piping thatextends above grade level 122 a can be enclosed within a housing. Thehousing can have any conformation so long as it provides protection fromthe outer environment. Preferably, the housing includes a generallycylindrical body portion 128 and a cap portion 126. As shown in FIG. 11,a portion of the generally cylindrical body portion 128 can include amount 130 for the port 116.

With respect to the cap-redirect configuration, a splash guard 132 canbe provided about the base of the housing 128 so as to prevent erosionof the soil surrounding the unit as a result of repeated directdischarge. The splash guard 132 can have any shape such as beinggenerally circular. Further, the splash guard 132 can be made of avariety of materials like plastics or metals including aluminum. Thesplash guard 132 can be secured in place in any of a number of ways. Forexample, the splash guard 132 can include provisions for mounting intothe ground itself and/or the above-ground 128 or below-ground 134housings.

FIG. 10 shows another discharge configuration, which shall be referredto as the “pipe-redirect” system. In the pipe-redirect system, the watercan be routed vertically up and redirected downward through one or moredischarge pipes (122, 136, 138). The discharge pipes can be a singlepipe or a plurality of pipes and/or fitting to redirect the waterdownward. In addition, the discharge pipes can be an extension of thegenerally vertical piping 122. In any event, the water is dischargeddownwardly and into a below grade location such as a storm drain, sewerline or drain field. The above ground components of the “pipe redirect”system can be enclosed within a housing 118.

The column system can extend below ground to a variety of depths such asfrom about 3 feet to about 9 feet or from about 5 feet to about 7 feet.The underground portion of the system can be contained within a housing134. The housing can have various conformation such as cylindrical asshown in FIGS. 9 and 10. However, the housing can also be square,triangular, polygonal, rectangular, oval, or irregular in cross-section.The housing 134 can have any conformation so long as it generallyshields the system from the surrounding earth. The top 134 a and bottom134 b ends of the housing can be open or closed. Preferably, the bottomend 134 b is closed. However, any openings provided in the bottom 134 bof the housing 134 for permitting component to pass through can includematerial such as a gasket to substantially seal the bottom from theinfiltration of water and soil.

When buried at least partially underground, the column-type systems canmake use of a natural freeze protection phenomenon to ensure that itscomponents do not freeze. In particular, there is a certain depth, whichvaries from place to place, below which the ground does not freeze. Thisdepth is known as the freeze or frost line. Because the ground below thefrost line does not freeze, it follows that any components of the waterflushing system disposed below the frost line will not freeze.

Thus, in one embodiment, the main operating components of thecolumn-type system such as the control valve 112 and controller 114 canbe disposed below the frost line 140. Moreover, insulation material 142such as foam can be provided inside of the housing 134 so as to separatethe components above and below the frost line 140. In such case, theinsulation material 142 is disposed substantially at the frost line 140.Thus, the insulation 142 retains the warmth below the frost line 140while impeding the infiltration of freezing temperatures of the earthabove the frost line 140. Naturally, the depth at which the frost line140 lies can vary from place to place.

Having described the basic components, assembly and operation of twotypes of column-style systems, aspects of the present inventionpertaining to these systems shall now be described.

Aspects of the present invention relate to freeze protection andbackflow prevention. As noted above, the column-type systems 100 canprovide one form of freeze protection by placing the functioningcomponents of the system below the frost line to ensure that thosecomponents will not freeze. Despite this protection, the system maynevertheless be exposed to dangers associated with freezing temperaturessuch as component damage due to the expansion of freezing water. Forexample, after completing a flushing operation, water may remain in thegenerally vertical piping 122 of the system. At least for the portion ofthe vertical piping 122 that extends above the frost line 140, theretained water can eventually freeze before the next purging cycleoccurs, causing piping or other components to break or rendering thesystem inoperative by blocking fluid flow.

Therefore, aspects of the present invention relate to a way for drainingthe water from the vertical column 122 at least to a level below thefrost line 140. Accordingly, in one aspect, a column-type systemaccording to aspects of the present invention can include a weep hole144 in the vertical piping so as to allow water to drain out of thevertical piping 122. Such a system is shown in FIG. 11.

The weep hole 144 can be located anywhere along the length andcircumference of the vertical piping 122 so long as it is below thefrost line 140 yet after the control valve 112. The weep hole 144 canhave any of a number of conformations such as round, circular, oval,oblong, circular, rectangular, polygonal, or irregular, just to name afew. The weep hope 144 can be any of a variety of sizes. Further, theweep hole 144 can extend through the thickness of the vertical piping122 at any angle with respect the outer surface of the vertical piping122. The weep hole 144 can be added to the piping 122 in any of avariety of manners including, for example, by cutting, drilling orpunching.

When a weep hole 144 is provided, the system can include a drain hole146 in a bottom surface of the housing 134 b to permit water to flow outof the unit and into the surrounding soil. The drain hole 146 can becovered with a wire mesh 148 or cloth or other material so as to preventdebris or other material in the surrounding soil from entering thehousing. The drain hole 146 can be any of a variety of sizes and can besized to provide a desired flow rate. Further, the drain hole 146 can bedisposed anywhere on the bottom surface of the housing 134 b. In oneembodiment, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the housing 134b can be generally sloped toward the drain hole 146 so as to guide waterdischarged from the weep hole 144 to the drain 146.

A column-type system 100 having a weep hole 144 can operate as follows.After a flushing operation, water can remain in the vertical pipingcolumn 122. However, the weep hole 144 provides an exit path through thewater can flow out of the vertical piping 122. Water exiting the weephole 144 will flow into the interior of the housing such as an interiorcompartment 150 defined between the insulation 142 and the bottom of thehousing 134 b. The water will continue to flow through the weep hole 144until the water level in the column 122 is at or below the level of theweep hole 144. At that point, any remaining water will be below thefrost line 140 and the dangers of freezing will be eliminated.

The water that has poured into the interior of the housing 150 can exitthe system through the drain hole 146. It should be noted that not onlydoes the weep hole 144 permit water to exit the vertical piping 122after a flushing operation, but it also allows water to flow from theweep hole 144 during a flushing operation. During a flushing mode, mostof the water is routed vertically upward through the vertical piping 122and ultimately discharged from the system in any of the mannerspreviously discussed. However, a portion of the water can flow outthrough the weep hole 144 and into the sub-frost line compartment 150 ofthe housing 134. Again, this water can flow out of the housing 134through the drain hole 146.

While the weep hole 144 can remedy the concern of residual water in thevertical piping 122, it may sometimes be undesirable to have waterflowing out of the weep hole 144 during the flushing cycle of thesystem. For example, it may not be desirable to drain excessive amountsof water to the soil surrounding the system due to soil saturationand/or erosion. Also, the additional water can make the compartment 150unnecessarily wet and/or dirty. Accordingly, aspects of the inventionfurther relate to provisions for allowing water to drain from thevertical column 122 only when the system is not in a flushing mode. Inother words, aspects of the invention relate to provisions forpreventing water from flowing out of the column 122 and into thesub-frost line compartment 150 during a flushing operation.

The desired results can be achieved in a variety of ways in accordancewith aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment, the presentinvention can provide one or more valves or fittings, either incombination or individually, that can effectuate the desired results.For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the present invention can include acombination of a relief valve 152 and a pressure increase fitting 200.Each of these components will be discussed in detail below.

The relief valve 152 can be any component that blocks the flow ofpressurized fluid through the valve while permitting low ornon-pressurized flow to freely pass through the valve. One example ofsuch a low pressure relief valve 152 is shown in FIG. 16. The reliefvalve 152 can comprise a multitude of individual components. As shown inFIG. 17, a low pressure relief valve 152 can comprise a first shell 154,an o-ring 156, a plunger 158, a second shell 160, a biasing member 162,a coupling 164, an elongated member 166 and a closing member 168. Eachof these components will be discussed in turn below.

The first shell 154 can have any of a variety of forms. In oneembodiment, the first shell 154 can have female receptacles at each end.Each female receptacle can be provided with internal threads forthreadably engaging with other components. The female receptacles can beidentical and, in such case, can comprise one substantially continuousthreaded axial passage through the first shell. However, the endconfigurations need not be identical or even similar. For example, oneend can provide a male connection and the other a female receptacle.

In the example shown in FIGS. 17, 18 and 20, the first shell includesthreaded female receptacles at each end 154 a, 154 b with thereceptacles being of unequal size.

The receptacles define part of an inner axial passage 170 extendingthrough the first shell 154. In addition, the inner axial passage 170includes an unthreaded region 172 between the first and secondreceptacles 154 a, 154 b; this unthreaded region 172 can be tapered orit may be generally straight. Further, the first shell 154 can provide ashelf portion 174 that extends substantially about an inner periphery ofthe first shell. The shelf 174 can be any width and is preferably sizedso as to accommodate the o-ring or gasket material 156.

One or more positioning members 176 can be provided within the inneraxial passage 170 of the first shell 154. For example, the positionmembers 176 can include a plurality of inwardly extending arms. Thepositioning members 176 can have any of a variety of configurations solong as they can generally position the plunger 158, maintain theplunger 158 in position, and do not substantially restrict fluid flowthrough the inner axial passage 170. The positioning members 176 can bepositioned anywhere in the first shell 154 and, in one embodiment, fourpositioning members 176 are located in the unthreaded region 172 of theinner axial passage 170 and project radially inward therefrom.

The outer surface of the first shell can have miscellaneousconformations. Preferably, at least portion of the outer surface of thefirst shell can include a hexagonal surface 178 for allowing a user toengage a tool such as pliers or a crescent or adjustable wrench totighten or loosen the first shell as may be necessary. The first shell154 can be made of any of a variety of materials including metals orplastics. In one embodiment, the first shell 154 is a molded plasticpiece.

The plunger 158 of the valve 152 according to the invention cangenerally include a flange portion 182 and a shaft portion 180 extendingoutward from one side of the flange portion 182. In one embodiment, theshaft portion 180 can extend substantially perpendicular to the flange182. Substantially perpendicular can include true perpendicular anddeviations therefrom. The flange portion 182 and the shaft portion 180can be a unitary piece or separate pieces joined in any of a variety ofmanners. The flange portion 182 can be any shape and is preferablygenerally circular. The flange portion 182 can further includecompressible material 184 such as a gasket for sealingly interfacingwith another surface. In one embodiment, the flange portion 182 includestwo generally disk-like pieces with compressible material sandwichedtherebetween.

The next component that can be part of the valve assembly is a secondshell 160. In one embodiment, the second shell 160 includes a threadedmale connector at one end 160 a and a threaded female connector at theother end 160 b. The male connector end 160 a can be sized-and haveassociated features so as to be matingly received in one of the femaleends 154 b of the first shell 154.

The second shell 160 can include an axial passage 186 extending at leastpartially through its interior. The axial passage 186 can include asurface 188 for substantially sealingly engaging with the flange portion182 of the plunger 158. The flange engaging surface 188 can be sloped orgenerally straight. Subsequent to the flange engaging surface 188, theaxial passage 186 includes one or more outlet holes 190 that extendthrough the second shell 160. The outlet holes 190 can be arrangedcircumferentially about the second shell 160 and, in one embodiment, sixoutlet holes 190 are so arranged. The outlet holes 190 can be any size,shape and at any orientation with respect to the axial passage 186.Preferably, the holes 190 are generally circular in cross-section.

The other end of the second shell 160 b can be configured in severalways. For example, it can be closed so as to eliminate the need for theelongated member 166, the closing member 168 and the coupling member164. In another embodiment, this end of the second shell 160 can includea threaded opening 192 for receiving the coupling member 164.

As for its outer surfaces, the second shell 160 can be contoured invarious ways and include a number of features. For example, at leastportion of the outer surface of the second shell 160 can include ahexagonal surface 194 for allowing a user to engage a tool such aspliers or a crescent or adjustable wrench to tighten or loosen the firstshell as necessary. In addition, the second shell 160 can include aflange portion 196 between the hexagonal portion 194 and the threadedmale end 160 a. The second shell 160 can be made of any of a variety ofmaterials including metals or plastics. In one embodiment, the secondshell 160 is a molded plastic piece.

The biasing member 162 can be, for example, a spring. Further, thebiasing member 162 can have any amount of resilience. The biasing member162 can be anything so long as it can provide a biasing force againstthe flange portion 182 of the plunger 158. The biasing member 162 can bemade of any material, preferably one that does not rust or degrade uponexposure to water.

The elongated member 166 can be any of a variety of things such as abolt or a threaded rod. The elongated member 166 can be made of any of avariety of materials, but metals such as stainless steels are preferred.

The coupling member 164 serves as a connection between the elongatedmember 166 and the second shell 160. In one embodiment, the coupling 164and the elongated member 166 can be a single piece. The coupling 164 canhave an opening 198 to accommodate the elongated member 166. Forexample, when the elongated member 166 is a threaded rod, the opening198 of the coupling 164 can include internal threads for threadablyengaging the elongated member 166. Preferably, when assembled, a portionof the elongated member 166 extends from both ends of the couplingmember. One end, the extending portion of the elongated member 166 canbe used to position the biasing member 162; the other extending end ofthe elongated member 166 can be used to engage with the closing member168.

Further, the coupling 164 can be configured so as to matingly bereceived in or matingly engage with the second shell 160. For example,when one end 160 b of the second shell 160 provides a threaded femaleend, the coupling 164 can provide a threaded male end so as to matinglyengage the second shell 160. The coupling member 164 can be made of manymaterials like metals or plastics, especially those that do not corrodeor degrade in water. In one embodiment the coupling 164 and theelongated member 166 can be a singe part.

The closing member 168 can be any device used to retain the elongatedmember 166 in position with the coupling member 164. For example, itcould be any mechanical fastener such as a nut. Alternatively, theclosing member 168 can be glue or other adhesive.

Having described the individual components that can comprise the reliefvalve 152, one manner in which these components can be assembled willnow be described. The elongated member 166 can be threaded into thecoupling member 164 so that a portion of the elongated member 166extends through each axial end of the coupling 164. Next, the coupling164 can be screwed into one end of the second shell 160 so as tosubstantially sealingly close that end of the second shell 160.

The spring 162 can then be placed inside the second shell 160 proximateto the protruding portion of the elongated member 166 and/or the end ofthe coupling member 164. For example, the spring 162 can be placed overthe protruding end of the elongated member 166.

Next, the plunger 158 is placed inside of the first shell 154 such thatthe shaft portion 180 of the plunger 158 is generally positioned betweenthe positioning members 176. In such case, the one side of the flangeportion 182 of the plunger 158 can be proximate to the positioningmembers 176. An o-ring 156 can then be placed in the first shell 154such that it rest on or is substantially adjacent to the ledge portion174 of the first shell 154.

The first and second shells 154,160 can be secured together by threadedengagement. When assembled, the flange portion 196 of the second shell160 can be substantially proximate to one end 154 b of the first shell154. Further, when assembled, the o-ring 156 can be compressed betweenthe ledge 174 and the end of the second member 160 a. Furthermore, thespring 162 can be substantially proximate to the flange portion 182 ofthe plunger such that the spring 162 exerts a spring force on theplunger 158. Finally, a nut 168 can be added to close the system.

Once assembled, the resistance of the spring 162 can be adjusted bytightening the coupling member 164 and/or elongated member 166 so thateither of these members extends further in or out of the second shell160. In other words, the more the coupling 164 is tightened, the morethe coupling 164 extends into the second shell 160 to thereby increasethe force exerted by the spring 162 against the plunger 158.Alternatively, when the coupling 164 is loosened, the coupling 164 doesnot extend as far into the second shell 160 and, therefore, the spring182 will exert a lesser force against the plunger 158.

The relief valve 152 can be used by itself such as by connecting itdirectly into the generally vertical piping 122 through, for example,the weep hole 144 or other opening below the frost line 140. In suchcase, the first shell 154 can be provided with a threaded maleconnection end so that it can be screwed into the vertical piping 122.In operation, water will initially flow into the valve 152 from thefirst shell end 154. If the water is pressurized, such as water beingpurged from the system during a flushing mode, it can push the plunger184 into substantially sealing engagement with a sealing surface 188 ofthe second shell 160 as is shown in FIG. 19. Thus, the pressurized waterwill not be able to pass through the valve. However, while the plunger158 is depressed, the spring 162 is urging the plunger 158 out ofengagement with the surface 188 of the second shell 160. As shown inFIG. 18, once the water pressure ceases or diminishes to be less thanthe spring force, the spring 162 will unseat the plunger 158 from itssubstantially sealing engagement with the surface 188 so as to allowwater to pass around the plunger 158 and out through the outlet holes190 in the second shell 160.

Further, the relief valve 152 can be indirectly connected into thegenerally vertical piping 122. Any fitting can be used for this purposeand, in one embodiment, aspects of the invention can provide a fittingfor increasing or maintaining a level of pressure on the plunger 158 soas to effectuate substantial sealing engagement with the second shell160.

One example of a pressure increase fitting 200 according to aspects ofthe present invention is shown in FIGS. 21–24. The fitting 200 is agenerally cylindrical component having a first end 202 and a second end204. In the embodiment shown, each of the first and second ends comprisemale connections with external threads. These are merely examples ofpossible configurations for the ends as the ends can also be femaleconnections possibly having internal threads as well. The ends 202, 204of the fitting can but need not be identical or even similar.

There can be an engaging surface 206 between the two ends for allowing atool to be connected. The engaging surface 206 can be, for example, ahexagonal surface for interfacing with a wrench or pliers. Otherconfigurations are possible for the surface 206 and, in one embodiment,there may not be an engaging surface 206 at all; instead, the exteriorof the fitting can be threaded along its entire length.

An opening 208 extends axially through between the two ends 202, 204 ofthe fitting 200 for permitting the flow of a fluid such as water. Theaxial opening 208 can be generally cylindrical but can have any of anumber of shapes.

The fitting 200 can further include a partial nipple 210 at one of itsends. The partial-nipple 210 can be generally semi-cylindrical or anyother configuration so long as it does not extend completely around theend 204 of the fitting 200. Other nipple 210 cross-sectionalconfigurations include rectangular, semi-oval, and semi-polygonal, toname a few. Preferably, the partial-nipple 210 is only at one end of thefitting.

The pressure increase fitting 200 can be made of any of a variety ofmaterials such as plastics or metals like stainless steel, brass oraluminum. The fitting 200 can be made in any manner in whichconventional fittings and fasteners are made such as being machined.While it is preferred if the fitting 200 is a single piece, it ispossible for the fitting 200 to be made from more than one piece.

Having described the details and/or assembly of the pressure increasefitting 200 and low pressure relief valve 152, one manner in which suchdevices can be used together in connection with a column-type system 100will now be described. The pressure increase fitting 200 can be insertedinto the vertical piping 122 of the column-type system 100. For example,the nipple-end 210 of the fitting 200 can be inserted into the weep hole144 or other opening in the vertical piping 122 below the frost line140. Next, the first shell 154 end of the relief valve 152 can beattached to the other end of the fitting 200. Preferably, the fitting200 is inserted into the vertical piping 122 so that the partial-nipple210 is on the top as generally shown in FIG. 22. In other words, thefitting 200 is ideally positioned so that the open face 212 of thepartial-nipple 210 faces the oncoming flow. Thus, when pressurized waterflows through the vertical piping 122 during a flushing operation, thepartial-nipple 210 of the fitting 200 acts as a scoop so as to routesome of the oncoming flow through the fitting 200 and to the valve 152.The partial-nipple 210 can capture a portion of the dynamic head of theflushing water. Moreover, field experience has demonstrated that thisorientation can ultimately increase the pressure applied to the plunger158 so as to provide improved sealing with the second shell 160.

The combination of the relief valve 152 and the fitting 200 can precludewater from flowing into the interior of the housing 150 while the systemis flushing. However, still further improvements can be made to thesystem 100 because experience has shown that dirty or contaminated watercan, in certain circumstances, be suctioned back into the system throughthe relief valve 152. The water being sucked back in can be the watergenerally standing in the interior of the compartment 150 waiting todrain. This water can contain contaminants or may become contaminated ordirtied while standing in the housing. Thus it is desirable if thiswater is not allowed to enter the water supply. However, this can beproblematic since the basic vertical system 100 does not includebackflow prevention at that point in the apparatus.

Thus, aspects of the present invention further to preventing thepossibility of backflow through the relief valve 152. Accordingly acheck valve 214 can be added between the fitting 200 and the reliefvalve 152. The check valve 214 can be any valve that generally onlypermits unidirectional flow through the valve. The check valve 214 canbe any type of valve; ideally, the check valve is a double check valve,preferably of the in-line type.

One embodiment of a column-type water flushing system including a doublecheck valve 214 is shown in FIG. 13. In this arrangement, the fitting200 can be inserted into the vertical piping in any of the mannerspreviously described. The other end of the fitting can now connect intothe double check valve 214. To avoid the string of valves and fittingsfrom becoming too long in one direction and possibly interfering withneighboring components, one or more fittings such as an elbow 216 can beinterposed between the pressure increase fitting 200 and the check valve214. The other end of the check valve 214 can be connected to the reliefvalve 152.

The above-described assembly generally operates as previously described.But now the double check valve 214 will prevent contaminated or dirtywater sucked in through the relief valve 152 from contaminating thesupply water.

However, during field operation and testing, the double check valve 214and/or the relief valve 152 occasionally locked up and prevented flowout of the column so as to expose a system to the dangers of freezingconditions. The lock-up may have been caused by a pressure buildup inthe passage between the double check valve 214 and the relief valve 152.Thus, aspects of the present invention are directed to preventing lockup of the check valve 214 and/or the relief valve 152 by providing apressure release between the two valves.

Therefore, in one embodiment, aspects of the present invention caninclude a pressure relief line 218 as shown in FIG. 14. The pressurerelief line 218 can tie into the system by way of a t-fitting 220, forexample, which would be placed between the double check valve 214 andthe relief valve 152. The line 218 can be routed to a variety of places.For example, the relief line 218 can be connected into any of a numberof places along the vertical piping 122. However, to avoid backflowconcerns, the line 218 can alternatively be routed so that it outletsinto a bulkhead portion 219 of the housing 128. In such case, an opening221 can be included in the bulkhead portion by any of a number of methodsuch as by drilling or punching. In such a configuration, any waterflowing through the relief line 218 can be discharged with the rest ofthe water flushed from the system.

When the column-type system has a pipe-redirect discharge, the reliefline 218 can be routed to an above-ground portion of the system suchthat any water carried in the line 218 will discharge out of the systemby, for example connecting into a downwardly facing discharge pipe 222such as shown in FIG. 15.

In short, there are numerous ways for providing freeze protection andbackflow protection to the column-type system. While several embodimentsaccording to aspects of the invention have been set forth above, theyare only intended as examples as there are various other possibilitieswithin the scope of the invention.

As noted earlier, a substantial portion of the column system 100 can bedisposed beneath grade level 101 with many, if not all, of thefunctioning components situated below the frost line 140. Due to such anarrangement, access to the underground components, especially thosebelow the frost line 140, can be rather challenging. Moreover, the needto access the system can arise frequently such as for inspection,maintenance (i.e. yearly battery replacement) and/or repair purposes.

Thus, aspects of the present invention relate to provide a latchingsystem for allowing remote connection and disconnection of the waterflushing apparatus 100. In addition, the latching system according toaspects of the invention enables a user to retrieve most if not all ofwater flushing system 100 without having to unearth or substantiallydisassemble the system. While the latching system is described inconnection with water flushing system 100, the latching system accordingto aspects of the present invention is not so limited. Indeed, alatching system according to aspects of the invention can be used in anyapplication in which a system or apparatus are located in underground,remote, confined and/or restrictive areas.

An example of a latching system according to aspects of the presentinvention is shown in FIGS. 35 and 36. The system can comprise one ormore handles 250, one or more connecting rods 252 and a quick disconnect254. Each of these components will be discussed in turn.

One example of handles 250 according to aspects of the present inventionare shown in FIGS. 25 and 26. The handles 250 can be any device thatprovides an interface for a user to remotely operate the quickdisconnect component 254. The handles 250 can be a single piece or amulti-part assembly. The handles 250 can be made of any material and inone embodiment the handles 250 are made of metal. The handles 250 canprovide an area for the user to grip such as a knurled shaft and canfurther include ergonomic features.

A part that can be associated with the handles is a connection block256. The connection block 256 generally serves as the connection pointbetween the handle 250 and a respective connecting rod 252. In oneembodiment, there may not be a block 256 as the handle 250 may includeintegral structure in place of the block 256. However, when a block 256is used, it is preferred if the block 256 is rotatably attached to thehandle 250. Rotatably attached means that at least a portion of theblock 256 can rotate relative to the handle 250 about at least one axis.One configuration for achieving rotatable attachment is for the block256 to be secured to the handle 250 using a shoulder bolt 258. In suchcase, the block 256 can include an opening 260 to allow passage of theshoulder bolt 258 or other elongated member or fastener, which canscrewed into or otherwise anchored to the handle 250.

The block 256 can have any configuration such a being generallyrectangular, as shown in FIG. 25, or any other shape such as triangular,polygonal oval cylindrical, to name a few. The block 256 can be made ofany of a variety of materials including metals and plastics. The block256 can provide features for attaching the block 256 to other systemcomponents. For example, the block 256 can provide a threaded hole forreceiving a threaded end of a connecting rod, or, as noted above, theblock 256 can include a pass through openings to accommodate variousfasteners.

The handles 250 and block 256 can be attached to the column system 100in a variety of ways. For example, the handles 250 can be attacheddirectly or indirectly to any part of the column system such as thevertical piping 122 or one of the housings 134, 118. In one embodiment,the handles 250 can be attached to the column system so as to be removedalong with the system after the system is disconnected. Preferably, thehandles 250 are generally associated with the system so as to be locatedin a user accessible region of the system or apparatus.

The handles 250 can be attached to any component of the column system.In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 26, the handles 250 can be attached tothe vertical piping 122 by way of a handle mount 262. The handle mount262 can have numerous configurations. For example, the handle mount 262can be integral with the vertical piping itself 122 or it can be aseparate piece that can comprise a single part or an assembly. Oneexample of a handle mount 262 according to aspects of the invention isshown in FIGS. 25 and 26. As shown, the handle mount 262 can be a twopiece construction having first and second halves 264,266. Each half264,266 can have a recess 268 so that when the halves 264,266 aresecured together, such as by bolts 267, a passage is formed therebetweenthrough which a component such as the vertical piping 122 can pass. Therecesses 268 in each half 264,266 can be any shape, but preferably eachhalf mount 264,266 includes a generally semi-circular recess 268.Preferably, the halves of the mount 264,266 are identical so as toreduce the number of unique parts of the system, but they need not beidentical. The mount 262 can be made of a plethora of materialsincluding metals and plastics; in one embodiment, the handle mount 262is made of the same material as the handle 250.

The handles 250 can be attached to the handle mount 262 and/or verticalpiping 122 in a variety of manners. In one embodiment, the handles 250can be rotatably attached to the handle mount 262. Rotatable attachmentmeans that at least a portion of the handle can rotate relative to thehandle mount about at least axis. In the way of an example, rotatableattachment can be achieved by securing the handle 250 to the handlemount 262 using a shoulder bolt 270. The shoulder bolt 270 can passthrough a hole 272 in the handle 250 and screw into a threaded hole 274provided in the mount 262. Thus, a user can turn the handle 250, causingthe handle 250 to rotate about the shoulder screw 270 while the handlemount 262 remains stationary.

The latching system according to aspects of the present inventionfurther can include connecting rods 252. An example of a connecting rod252 can be seen in FIG. 34. The rods 252 can be made of any material butstainless steel is preferred. The rods 252 can be generally hollow orsolid, and can have any of a number of cross-sections such as generallycircular, polygonal, rectangular, square, oblong. The connecting rods252 include a proximal end 280 and a distal end 282. The relative termsproximal and distal relate to the spatial relation between a particularend of a connecting rod 252 and a user, the proximal ends 280 beingcloser to the user, such as at the near the top of the water flushingsystem, than the distal ends 282.

Each end 280, 282 of the connecting rod 252 can be configured forattachment or securement to the handles 250 and the quickconnect/disconnect 254. For example, at least one end can provide athreaded male end. As shown in FIG. 34, both the proximal and distalends 280, 282 have external threads. In one embodiment of the latchingsystem, shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the proximal end 280 of the connectingrods 252 can be attached to the handles 250 and/or block 256; the distalend 282 of the connecting rods 252 can be attached to a portion of adetachable coupling 254 such as a quick connect/disconnect.

The rods 252 can be connected to the handle 250 and/or detachablecoupling 254 in a variety of manners such as by welding, one or morefasteners, threaded engagement, or in a ball and socket relationship.Preferably, the proximal end 280 of the rods 252 include externalthreads for threadably engaging the block portion 256 of the handle.Thus, the connecting rod 252 can rotate with the block 256 as itrotates. Similarly, the distal end 282 of the connecting rods 252 canhave numerous configurations for attachment to the quickconnect/disconnect 254. In one embodiment, the distal end 282 can beprovided with external threads for threaded engagement with a portion ofthe quick connect/disconnect 254. In another embodiment, the connectingrods 252 can provide handle-like structures (not shown) at its proximalend 280 to as to eliminate the need for separate handle members 250.

In one embodiment, the connecting rods 252 can be generally straight.However, it is preferred that the connecting rods 252 include a bend 284near the proximate end 280 of the rod 252 as shown in FIG. 34. Withrespect to vertical, the rods 252 can be bent from about 14 degrees toabout 26 degrees and, more particularly, from about 14 degrees to about20 degrees and, even more particularly, at about 15 degrees. The bends284 can be formed in any of a variety of manners such as by hand,pliers, or a tube bending apparatus. The bent rod configuration canprovide advantages over a straight rod when locking the quickconnect/disconnect 254 because the bend 284 can provide additionallocking or clamping force as the user moves the handles 250 so as tolock the quick connect/disconnect 254.

As noted earlier, the latching system according to aspects of thepresent invention can further include a quick-connect/disconnect 254.One example of such a device is a cam lock that is shown in FIGS. 27 and28; however, the quick connect/disconnect 254 can have a variety offorms.

As noted earlier, the column system can be secured to a waterdistribution line by way of a quick connect/disconnect 254. The quickconnect/disconnect 254 can be anything that can detachably couple twocomponents together. At least a portion of the quick connect/disconnect254 can be a part of a component. That is, a localized area of acomponent can include features that would allow it to lock and unlock toother components. With respect to the column-type flushing system, thequick connect/disconnect 254 is used to attach the water inlet piping ofthe system to an underground water distribution system.

One example of a quick connect/disconnect 254 can be a cam lock as areknown in the art. The cam lock 254 can generally comprise a male portion286 (FIG. 28) and a female portion 288 (FIG. 27). The male portion 286can be matingly received in the female portion 288. The male component286 can be coupled, for example, to an end of a pipe from theunderground water distribution system; the female coupling 288 can besecured, for example, to the inlet piping of the column-type waterflushing system. The cam lock 254 provides one or more handles 290 thatcan rotate between locked and unlocked positions. In the lockedposition, shown in FIG. 29, a cam portion 292 of the handle can extendpartially into the interior of the female component 288 so as tolockingly engage a bearing surface 294 on the male component 286. Thebearing surface 294 can have a reduced diameter with respect to theadjacent areas of the male portion 286. In the unlocked position, asshown in FIG. 30, the cam portions 292 of the handles do not engage themale component 286 so as to permit the male and female components 286,288 to be separated from each other. In some embodiments, the cam lockhandles 290 can include one or more rings 296 for a user to grab.

As noted earlier, the distal end 282 of the connecting rods 252 areattached to the quick connect/disconnect 254 device so as to allow auser to selectively lock and unlock the device. For example, theconnecting rods 252 can be attached to the handles 290 of the cam lock254. There are numerous ways for attaching the connecting rods 252 tothe handles 290 of the cam lock 254 such as by welding, brazing oradhesives. Preferably, the connecting rods 252 are rotatably attached tothe handles 290 of the cam lock 254, which can include the ring 296.Rotatably attached means that at least a portion of the connecting rod252 can rotate about at least one axis relative to at least a portion ofthe handle 290 of the cam lock 254.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, rotatableattachment can be achieved by modifying a standard cam lock device 254.For example, one or more parts can be added to the handle 290 of the camlock 254. One such assembly of parts can be seen in FIG. 31. Theassembly can include first and second side members 300, a bridge member302 and an rod attachment member 304. Both the first and second sidemembers 300 include a first opening 306 for receiving the bridge member302 and a second opening 308 for receiving the attachment member 304.The side members 300 can be made of metal and can be generally flatpieces.

The bridge member 302 can also be a flat piece of metal with anyconformation. As shown, the bridge member 302 can be generallyrectangular. The rod attachment member 304 generally provides a centralattachment portion 310 that can include, for example, a threaded hole312 for attaching the distal end 282 of a connecting rod 252. Axles 314can extend from each side of the central attachment portion 310. The rodattachment member 310 can be disposed between the side members 300 suchthat the axles 314 are received within the second openings 308 of theside members 300 such that the rod attachment member 310 can rotatetherein. Moreover, the bridge member 302 can extend between the firstopenings 306 in the side members 300 as well as a slot 316 in the camlock handle 290. The slot 316 can be a preexisting slot used to retainthe ring 296 (the ring being removed in this embodiment) or it can beadded by, for example, machining or water-jet.

Once all the pieces are generally assembled, the bridge portion 302 canbe secured to the side portions 300 in any of a variety of manners suchas by welding or brazing. When finished, the assembly can appear asshown in FIG. 32. Again, this is only one manner in which the handles290 of the cam lock 254 can be configured for attachment to theconnecting rods 252.

Further, when the cam lock 254 includes two or more handles 290, thehandles 290 can be configured in an substantially identical manners (seeFIG. 33) or the handles 290 can be configured in completely differentmanners for attaching to the connecting rods 252. For example, one camlock handle 290 can be welded to the connecting rod 252 whereas theother cam lock handle 290 can be secured to the connecting rod 252 bythreaded engagement. Yet another possibility is to secure one of theconnecting rods 252 to the ring 296 that can be provided on the handles290 of the cam lock 254.

Having described the individual components of a latching systemaccording to aspects of the invention, one manner in which thesecomponents can be assembled will be described below. The describedassembly is only intended as an example as the assembly can occur injust about any sequence and not every step described below need occur.

The two halves 264, 266 of the handle mount 262 can be joined togetherso as to clampingly surround the vertical piping 122 as shown in FIG.26. The handle mount halves 264, 266 can be joined in any of a varietyof manners such as by welding, adhesives, or fasteners such as bolts267. Next, the two handles 250 can be rotatably attached to the handlemount 262 using, for example, shoulder bolts 270. Then, the block 256can be rotatably attached to each of the handles 250 such as by shoulderbolts 258.

Each block 256 can be provided with threaded holes (not shown) intowhich the threaded proximal ends 284 of the connecting rods 252 arereceived in threaded engagement. Additional securement devices such asthread lock, adhesives or welding may be used to further establish theconnection between the connecting rods 252 and the block 256. Onceattached, at least the proximal ends 282 of the connecting rods 252 canrotate with the block 256 relative to the handles 250.

Next, the distal ends 284 of the connecting rods 252 can be secured inthreaded engagement with the holes (not shown) provided in the handles290 of the female portion 288 of the cam lock device 254. Alternatively,the rods 252 may be secured to the handle 290 directly or to the rings296 provided with the cam lock device 254. Preferably, the connectingrod 252 is connected to at least a portion of the handle 290 of the camlock device 254 can rotate like, for example, rod attachment member 310in the case of modified handles 290.

One manner in which the latching system can be used in connection withthe column-type water flushing system will now be described. A user maywish to access certain portions of the flushing system that are disposedbelow ground. For example, the user may need to replace the controlvalve 112. In such case, a user can cut off the water supply from themain distribution line through a curb stop 113 (FIG. 10). After cuttingoff the water supply, a user may run the flushing system to purge anyresidual water out of the system 100.

Next, the user can remove any components of the flushing system thatrestrict access to the latch system handles 250 such as the housing 118as well as cap 126. Once accessible, the handles 250 can be turned by auser in a manner so as to unlock the cam lock 254. When the user turns ahandle 250, the motion of the handle 250 can be transmitted to thehandles 290 of the cam locks 254 by way of the connecting rods 252.Thus, the cam lock handles 290 can be moved from their locked position(FIG. 35) to their unlocked position (FIG. 36).

After the user has moved both handles 290 of the cam lock 254 into theunlocked position, the user can manually retrieve the entire orsubstantially all of the water flushing apparatus. For example, the usercan pull upward on the handles 250 and the entire unit will slide out ofthe underground housing 134. Then a user can perform the necessaryrepairs or maintenance on the system.

Once the repair or maintenance is completed, the latching system can beused to reattach the water flushing system 100 to the main waterdistribution line. In such case, the water distribution system can belowered into the housing 134 so that the female cam lock 288 receivesthe corresponding male receptacle 286 on the end of the waterdistribution system. Once properly in position, the handles 250 can beturned which result in a corresponding movement of the cam lock handles290 so as to lock the cam lock 254. When moving the handles to a locked,the bend 284 in the connecting rod 252 can assist by providingadditional force in bringing the cams 292 into locked engagement with asurface 294 of the male connector 286.

While the latching system has been described in connection with a waterflushing system, the latching system according to aspects of theinvention can be applied to any system or apparatus in which it isdifficult to access at least a portion of the system or apparatus suchas when the system or apparatus are disposed in a confined space or aresubterranean.

In connection with the column-type water flushing system, aspects of theinvention can further relate generally to the treatment of at least aportion of the water being flushed from the system. In one embodiment,the aspects of the invention can relate to dechlorination of the water,which can be accomplished in various manners. Two examples ofdechlorination systems will be discussed below—one manner is especiallysuited for the pipe-redirect system and the other manner is especiallysuited for the cap-redirect system. While discussed in terms ofdechlorination, the water treatment system below can be used to treatthe flushing water in a variety of ways that are within the scope of theinvention.

With respect to the pipe-redirect type of column system, aspects of thedecholrination system discussed in connection with the box system areequally applicable here as would be appreciated by one skilled in theart. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, inlet tubing 86 can be connectedinto the discharge piping 26 such that a portion of discharge water willbe routed to a water treatment container 80 (see also FIG. 8) such ashas been previously discussed. After flowing through the container 80,the treated water can then flow into back into the discharge piping. Forexample, the inlet and outlet tubing for the water treatment containercould connect into any portion of the above ground piping shown in FIG.10.

However, with respect to the cap-redirect configuration, aspects of thepresent invention can provide a different configuration fordechlorinating at least a portion the water being discharged. In onerespect, it is desirable to provide a water treatment device such as adechlorinator in a form that will not require substantial alteration ofthe basic cap-redirect design.

One example of such a system is shown in FIGS. 37–39. The shown assemblycan include a number of parts such as a router 350, a container 352 anda cap 354. These and other components will be discussed in turn.

The router 350 can include a generally vertical channel portion 356 anda treatment chamber 358. The treatment chamber 358 can extend generallyforward and transverse to the channel portion 356. Preferably, thechannel portion 356 matingly interfaces with at least a portion of theouter surface of the housing 128 so as to define a passage 360. Therouter 350 can be sized so as to extend substantially along theabove-ground length of the housing 128. The chamber portion 358 isgenerally hollow and can be in any of a number of configurations. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 38, the chamber 358 can be generally U-shapedand can include a series of openings 362 along at least a portion of itslower edge. The chamber portion 358 and the channel portion 356 can bein fluid communication by one or more openings or passages 364 providedbetween the two portions. For example, as shown in FIG. 39, at least aportion of the back wall 366 of the channel portion 356 does not extendthe entire length of the part. Thus, fluid can pass into the chamberportion 358.

The container member 352 of the water treatment/dechlorination assemblycan have any of a number of conformations and may be made of any of anumber of materials including metals and plastic like PVC. Preferably,the container 352 is made of a material that is compatible with anysubstance held within. In one embodiment, the container 352 is made ofPVC and is generally cylindrical. The container 352 is open at each ofits upper and lower ends 352 a, 352 b, and at its lower end 352 b canfurther include a series on openings 368 along at least a portion of itsperiphery. In one embodiment, the openings 368 can extend about theentire periphery as shown in FIG. 38. Alternatively, a group of openings368 can be provided on opposite sides of the container 352. The cutoutscan be any shape and size. The container 352 may further include a wiremesh 370 for trapping any treatment substance 372 within the container352 to make it more difficult for the treatment substance 372 to bewashed through the openings 368,362 in the container 352 and chamber358. The mesh can be disposed in the container in multiple ways. Forexample, the wire mesh 370 can simply be placed in the container 352without fixing it to the container 352 in any way. Thus, the wire meshcan be freely placed in and taken out of the container 352. In anotherembodiment, the wire mesh 370 can be pushed into the container 352 fromeither side of the container 352 a, 352 b and/or can be glued in place.

The wire mesh 370 can be made of a number of materials such as metalsand plastics. The mesh 370 can also have a wide range of configurations.In one embodiment, the wire mesh 370 can be generally cylindrical. Theheight of the mesh 370 can vary as well. For example, as shown in FIG.39, the wire mesh 370 can be substantially the same height as thecontainer 352. In another embodiment, the wire mesh can be a relativelyshallow piece, possibly as substantially the same height or slightlytaller than the openings 368 in the container 352.

As discussed earlier, the treatment substance 372 can be almost anythingand various regulations can dictate what substance or substances areneeded. When the discharging water must be dechlorinated, the substance372 can be, for example, sodium sulfite, which may be provided in anyform including tablets. In other cases, the substance can be vitamins.

The assembly can include a cap 354 for covering the open top of thecontainer 352 a and the chamber portion 358 of the router 350. Can bemade of any materials but plastic is preferred. The cap 354 can beconformingly fitted over the open top.

One manner of assembling the above components will be described. Therouter 350 can be placed substantially adjacent to the housing 128 suchthat the cap 126 is substantially adjacent to an upper end of thechannel portion 356 of the router 350. In another embodiment, the cap126 can overlap a portion of the channel 356 as shown in FIG. 39. Theassembly can be held in place by securing the assembly to the splashguard by, for example, an L-shaped bracket 374.

Next, the wire mesh 370 can be placed in the container 352, which canthen be filled with one or more treatment substances 372. Container 352can be placed in the chamber 358 of the router 350 and then covered withthe cap 354. As can be appreciated from the above, the installation ofthe water treatment assembly requires minimal modification to thecap-redirect system.

Now one manner in which the system can be used will be described. Duringa flushing operation, the cap 126 directs water downwardly out of thesystem. Some of the discharged water will flow onto the splash guard 132and then into the soil. However, a portion of the discharged water willflow into the passage 360 defined between the channel portion 356 of therouter 350 and the outer wall of the housing 128. The water flowing downthe passage 360 will flow into the chamber portion 358 of the router 350by way of an opening 364 provided in the channel portion 356 of therouter 350.

Once in the chamber portion 358, the water can flow into the container352 through its lower openings 368 and scour against the water treatmenttablets 372. The water can ultimately exit the assembly through theopenings 362 in the chamber portion 358 of the router 350. As waterexits the decholrination assembly, it can mix with the other flushingwater so as to effectively treat the water that did not flow through thewater treatment assembly.

The amount of dechlorination can be regulated at least by the number ofdechlorination assemblies 348 that are attached about the base of thehousing 128. In one embodiment, a single dechlorination assembly 348 canbe used; however, in other embodiments, there can be two or more (asshown in FIG. 37). The maximum number of assemblies 348 that can beinstalled depends at least upon the size of the assembly and the size ofthe housing. In one embodiment, there can be up to four dechlorinationassemblies spaced around the outer periphery of the housing 128.

Alternatively, the amount of treatment can also be controlled throughthe series of holes 362 located at the base of the router 358. Byplugging one or more of these holes 362, the amount of water flowingacross the dechlorination tablets 372 can be adjusted. Obviously, ifnone of the holes 362 are plugged, then the greatest amount of water isallowed to scour the tablets, thereby releasing the greatest amount ofchemical.

In summary, there are several aspects according to the present inventionthat can be used in connection with column-type system. Aspects includeat least freeze protection, backflow prevention, various specialtyfitting and valves, dechlorination and other water treatment systems anda retrieval system.

It will of course be understood that the invention is not limited to thespecific details described herein, which are given by way of exampleonly, and that various modifications and alterations are possible withinthe scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

1. A water flushing system comprising: a flow controlled passage forpressurized water having an inlet adapted for fluid connection to asubterranean pressurized water distribution system located below thefrost line of the ground; a flow control valve disposed along the flowcontrolled passage for permitting and prohibiting the flow ofpressurized water through the flow controlled passage and into adischarge conduit, the discharge conduit having an outlet fordischarging the pressurized water; a programmable electronic controllerfor controlling the flow of pressurized water through the flowcontrolled passage by activating and deactivating the flow controlvalve, the controller including a programmable microprocessor system forstoring instructions for activating and deactivating the flow controlvalve; a t-fitting having a first end, a second end and a third end, thefirst end being connected to the flow control valve, the second end ofthe t-fitting being connected to supply tubing, and the third end beingconnected to the controller, the t-fitting being adapted to allow aportion of the pressurized water at the flow control valve to flow intothe supply tubing, wherein the supply tubing routes the water to atemperature control valve, the temperature control valve beingresponsive to the temperature of the water in the supply piping, whereinthe temperature control valve is closed when the temperature of thewater in the supply piping is above a first predetermined temperature,wherein the temperature control valve is at least partially open whenthe temperature of the water in the supply piping is at or below thefirst predetermined temperature, thereby allowing pressurized water topass through the temperature control valve and into exit tubing, theexit tubing extending from the temperature control valve to thedischarge piping, wherein a portion of the exit tubing wraps around atleast a portion of the controller, whereby the passage of above freezingwater from the water distribution system prevents the controller and thesupply tubing from freezing.
 2. The water flushing system of claim 1wherein when the temperature control valve is at least partially open,the control valve opens, independently of the controller, whereby thepressurized water in the flow control passage is prevented fromfreezing.
 3. The water flushing system of claim 1 wherein the controllerand the portion of the exit tubing wrapped therearound are substantiallyenclosed within a housing.
 4. The water flushing system of claim 1wherein the first predetermined temperature is from about 35 degreesFahrenheit to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
 5. The water flushing systemof claim 1 wherein the temperature control valve is set to be fully openat a second predetermined temperature.
 6. The water flushing system ofclaim 5 wherein the second predetermined temperature is from about 30degrees Fahrenheit to about 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
 7. The water flushingsystem of claim 5 wherein the second predetermined temperature is about5 degrees below the first predetermined temperature.
 8. The waterflushing system of claim 1 wherein the supply and exit tubing are fromabout ½ to about ⅜ inches in diameter.